“He’s the baddest bass player in the U.S.A!” proclaimed the late, great Donny Hathaway from the stage of the Bitter End in New York City. His extensive solo passage comprised of relatively simple motifs buoyed by an amazing array of rhythmic variations on “Voices Inside” from Donny’s iconic Live (1972) album remains a benchmark for bassists.

From the 1960s to the present day, Willie Weeks continues to set the bar as a session player and sideman.